Provence · Hill villages, markets and stone mas in the heart of Provence
Villas in the Luberon
The Luberon is Provence at its most picturesque: hilltop villages of honey-colored stone, vineyards and cherry orchards, lavender in early summer and a market somewhere every day of the week. It's centered on a protected regional nature park, which keeps the landscape largely unspoiled.
The area
What staying in the Luberon is like
It's one of the best places in France for a villa holiday. Traditional mas with shuttered windows, big gardens and pools are spread across the valley, with a village rarely more than a short drive away.
Days are built around the villages. A morning market, a coffee under the plane trees, lunch that lasts well into the afternoon, then back to the villa for a swim. Each village has its own character and its own market day, and part of the pleasure is working your way through them.
The Luberon mountain divides the area in two. The northern side has the famous perched villages of Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux and Ménerbes. The southern side, around Lourmarin, is gentler and a little less visited.
Especially good for
- Families and multi-generational groups
- Food lovers and market enthusiasts
- Cyclists and walkers
- Large groups looking for a mas with space
Where to stay
Where to base yourself in the Luberon
- 01
Gordes
The most famous village, perched on a hillside with spectacular views. Close to the Abbaye de Sénanque and its lavender.
- 02
Bonnieux and Lacoste
Hilltop villages facing each other across the valley, central and well connected.
- 03
Ménerbes
A quiet, beautiful village surrounded by vineyards, popular with villa guests.
- 04
Roussillon
Built on ochre cliffs, with striking colors and walking trails through the ochre quarries.
- 05
Lourmarin
On the southern side, with a château, cafés and a relaxed atmosphere. Closer to Aix-en-Provence.
Choosing a villa
Worth knowing before you choose
- Traditional stone mas are the classic choice, often with generous gardens and pools. Older houses stay cool naturally; ask about air-conditioning if you're traveling in July or August.
- Many villas are between villages rather than in them. If walking to a café matters, tell us.
- Summer rentals commonly run Saturday to Saturday.
Seasons
When to go
- May and June
- Warm, green and lively, with the first lavender in late June.
- July
- Peak lavender season and summer festivals. Hot, busy and beautiful.
- September and October
- Harvest, softer light and quieter villages.
Practical notes
Getting there and around
More on the wider region in our Provence guide.
- Marseille airport (MRS) is typically around an hour's drive. The Avignon TGV station, with fast trains from Paris, is closer still.
- A car is essential. Villages are close together but spread across the valley.
- Apt's Saturday market is one of the largest in the area. Local tourist offices publish each village's market day.
Also consider
Similar places to stay
Questions
The Luberon villa FAQs
When is lavender season in the Luberon?
Typically from late June to late July, varying with altitude and weather. The fields near the Abbaye de Sénanque, close to Gordes, are among the best known.
Which side of the Luberon is best?
The northern side has the famous perched villages and more choice of villas. The southern side, around Lourmarin, is gentler, a little quieter and closer to Aix-en-Provence. Both are excellent.
Can we combine the Luberon with the Riviera?
Yes. The coast is within a few hours' drive, and many travelers split a trip between a week in the countryside and a few days by the sea.
Plan your trip
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